Introduction
A pilot conducting a solo instructional flight in a glider experienced a high sink rate while turning from base leg to final approach. The pilot, who held ratings for airplanes and helicopters but not gliders, had accumulated only 2.5 hours of glider flight time, all in the same make and model.
Flight Details
The flight was a solo instructional mission, though the pilot did not possess a glider rating. His total glider experience was limited to the aircraft involved in the incident. The pilot reported that during the base turn, the glider encountered a high sink rate, which left him with insufficient altitude to reach the runway.
Accident Sequence
While maneuvering to land, the pilot noticed a significant increase in the rate of descent. Despite his efforts, he could not maintain a glide path to the intended landing area. Just before touchdown, a gust of wind affected the aircraft. The left wing then contacted the ground, causing the glider to ground loop. The aircraft came to rest after the uncontrolled rotation on the ground.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not state a probable cause. The pilot reported that the high sink rate and subsequent insufficient altitude prevented a normal landing, and a gust of wind led to the wing strike and ground loop.